Integrated Air Pathogen Sampling With On-Site RNA Detection
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current methods for sampling and detecting pathogens, particularly SARS-CoV-2 virus, in air require separate devices for sampling and analysis, leading to logistical challenges, prolonged timescales, and reduced accuracy due to sample handling and transportation issues.
Innovation Solution
An integrated, portable apparatus that combines air sampling, sample processing, and pathogen detection functions, using a compact, semi-automatic system with modules for collection, isolation, and analysis, enabling on-site detection of pathogens like SARS-CoV-2 virus.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If separate sampling and detection devices are used, then detection accuracy can be maintained, but device complexity and operational difficulty increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines separate sampling and detection devices into a single integrated apparatus. The sampling module collects air samples while the processing module and lab-on-chip device simultaneously prepare and analyze the samples, eliminating the need for separate devices and reducing overall system complexity while maintaining detection accuracy.
Solution Approach 2:
The integrated apparatus performs multiple functions within a single device: air sampling, biological material processing, nucleic acid extraction, and pathogen detection. This multi-functional design reduces the number of separate devices needed while maintaining the precision of each individual function.
2Measurement precision
If separate sampling and detection stages are used, then each stage can be optimized, but loss of time occurs during sample transport and processing
Solution Approach 1:
The apparatus enables continuous processing where air sampling, biological material processing, and detection occur in an uninterrupted sequence within the same device. Samples are immediately processed and analyzed without removal, eliminating transport time and ensuring continuous detection capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The processing module performs preliminary preparation of biological materials and nucleic acid extraction concurrently with sampling. This preliminary action ensures that when detection occurs, all preparatory steps are already complete, eliminating delays between sampling and detection.
3Measurement precision
If multiple devices and skilled operators are required, then detection accuracy is maintained, but ease of operation decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The integrated apparatus performs automated sample processing, nucleic acid extraction, and detection without requiring skilled operators for manual intervention. The system self-manages the entire workflow from sampling to result generation, making operation simple while maintaining detection accuracy through consistent automated processes.
4Ease of manufacture
If separate sampling and detection systems are used, then modularity is achieved, but productivity decreases due to multiple handling steps
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges sampling, processing, and detection functions into a single integrated apparatus, eliminating multiple handling steps between separate systems. This consolidation improves productivity by allowing simultaneous operation of all modules while maintaining the modular design for ease of manufacture and maintenance.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
Facilitates rapid, accurate, and cost-effective on-site detection of pathogens by integrating sampling, processing, and analysis, reducing time and logistical complexities while maintaining high accuracy.
Implementation Method 1
a collector (7) arranged inside said casing (2) in a position facing said inlet duct (4) designed to intercept the particles (8) entrained by the airflow sucked in
Implementation Method 2
a pump (6) arranged along said outlet duct (5) for determining an airflow through said inlet duct (4)
Implementation Method 3
a processing module for the isolation and processing of biological material contained in the sampled air
Implementation Method 4
a third module for the analysis of said material
Data Source
AI summary
An apparatus for sampling and detecting a pathogen in air comprising a first air sampling module, a second module for the isolation of viral RNA and a third module for amplification and detection of the viral RNA; thanks to the integration between the modules the apparatus is compact and portable and can be used for in situ sampling of air in closed environments such as ambulances or hospital rooms, air in the external environment and air exhaled by patients.